The Coupeville Marshal’s Office will see a change in command starting Sept. 1.

Current Marshal Rick Norrie said Monday he will be returning to work with the Island County Sheriff’s Office, which currently contracts with the Town of Coupeville for police services.

Sergeant Chris Garden, who has worked with the sheriff’s office for 28 years, will be training with Norrie through August and will assume the role of town marshal.

“He’s a rockstar guy,” Norrie said. “He’s got a lot of skills.”

The decision to leave the marshal role, Norrie said, was in part due to the fact that he plans to retire sometime next year.

“Coupeville has been the highlight of my career,” Norrie said. “Just having the opportunity to serve in this community has been great.”

Upon his return to the sheriff’s office, Norrie will serve as an administrative sergeant, working on policies, procedures and training and overseeing the marine unit.

“I’ve done all of that before,” Norrie said. “It will be easy for me to assume that job.”

Norrie said the only difference the public will likely see with the marshal’s office is the faces.

But don’t fret, Norrie said he will still be active within the community, particularly with the Coupeville Lions Club.

He will also be close by in case Garden needs help with anything.

“He’ll collaborate with the mayor,” Norrie said. “Sometimes fresh is better for the community.”

Garden has worn many hats during his law enforcement career.

He has been a patrol deputy, precinct sergeant, reserve officer coordinator, marine resource officer and field training officer.

“He is looking forward to working with our residents and coming to work in Coupeville every day,” said Coupeville Mayor Molly Hughes. “I’m really excited about Chris coming aboard.”

Garden is a third generation islander and lives in Oak Harbor with his wife, three daughters and three grandchildren.